Revolution 250 and local groups preview statewide 250th events from Salem to Gloucester

Jonathan Lane of Revolution 250 told the commission that community organizations across Massachusetts are actively scheduling programs for 2025 and 2026 and that public interest is strong.

Lane said that many groups have already sold hotel room blocks and that organizers’ most frequent question is how attendees will move between events and where they will park. He noted that Leslie’s Retreat in Salem (February 25) will be an early large event and that Bunker Hill commemorations are planned for mid-June (June 14–17) with a June 17 program on the monument site. He also said Gloucester expects 700–800 reenactors for its event and that organizers across the state are coordinating reenactor schedules to allow participation in multiple towns.

Lane listed other local efforts: Acton 250 and Westford Rev 250 are running recurring programs; Hingham has a yearlong slate including its Lincoln Day commemoration; Cape Cod historical organizations plan a 250th symposium on July 26; and Benedict Arnold/Arnold’s march to Quebec commemorations and Knox Trail preparatory programs are scheduled later in 2025, leading into Knox Trail and evacuation-day events in 2026.

Lane summarized the state of planning plainly: “People are really excited about everything 250, and I know this because of our constant stream of questions coming in through the website. I know a number of groups who are coming in have, you know, they set up room blocks and hotels in the metro west, and they're all sold out. So, the people are coming. That's the good news. The bad news is people are coming.” He encouraged attendees to consult town-specific event websites and organizers for details about parking and transportation.